Instant Pot Split Pea Soup

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There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially on a chilly day.

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Instant Pot Split Pea Soup
Servings
6

Method

  1. Heat the Instant Pot on medium heat using the Sauté setting. Pour in oil and add leeks and onion, stirring to coat them. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

  2. Place the lid slightly askew over the pot and cook, stirring every few minutes, until the leeks are bright green and the vegetables are softened but still juicy-looking (not browned), for about 8-10 minutes.

  3. While the vegetables are cooking, make 2 or 3 vertical cuts into the outer band of skin on the ham hocks. This will help the fat cook out and tenderize the meat under pressure. Squeeze the juice of the lemon halves into a small bowl.

  4. Add cumin, cayenne, and turmeric to the leek mixture and stir to combine. Cook, stirring, until the spices are very fragrant, which takes about 1 minute.

  5. Nestle the ham hocks into the vegetables, ensuring that the cut sides make contact with the cooking surface. Cook undisturbed until the fat starts to cook out, approximately 3 minutes.

  6. Add the split peas to the pot and stir to coat. Season with salt. Stir in 6 cups of water.

  7. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to cook at high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow approximately 20 minutes for the pressure to build. After the cooking time, manually release the pressure.

  8. Transfer the

About this recipe

A Comforting Bowl of Goodness

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially on a chilly day. And when it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the classic split pea soup. But what if I told you that you can enjoy this hearty dish in a fraction of the time? With the help of an Instant Pot, you can have a steaming bowl of split pea soup ready in no time. Let's dive in and explore this delicious recipe!

The Magic of the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot has become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. It's like having a personal chef at your disposal, cooking up meals in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. With its combination of pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing functions, the Instant Pot is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of recipes.

So, how does it work? The Instant Pot uses high pressure to cook food quickly, locking in flavors and nutrients. It's like a pressure cooker on steroids! And the best part? You can set it and forget it. No need to babysit your soup on the stovetop or worry about it boiling over. The Instant Pot does all the work for you, allowing you to sit back and relax while it works its magic.

The Perfect Split Pea Soup

Now that we've established the wonders of the Instant Pot, let's talk about the star of the show – split pea soup. This classic dish is made from dried split peas, which are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein. It's a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Traditionally, making split pea soup requires simmering the ingredients for hours on the stovetop. But with the Instant Pot, you can have the same rich and flavorful soup in a fraction of the time. The high-pressure cooking process breaks down the peas, resulting in a creamy and velvety texture that's simply irresistible.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Split Pea Soup

To ensure your split pea soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

Rinse your split peas:

Before cooking, be sure to rinse your split peas thoroughly. This helps remove any impurities and reduces the likelihood of foam forming during cooking.

Add flavor with aromatics:

Enhance the taste of your soup by sautéing onions, garlic, and other aromatics before adding the rest of the ingredients. This step helps develop complex flavors that will take your soup to the next level.

Don't skimp on the seasoning:

Split pea soup can be quite hearty, so don't be shy when it comes to seasoning. Add herbs, spices, and a touch of salt to enhance the overall flavor profile of your soup.

Customize to your liking:

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to make the soup your own. You can add diced ham for a smoky flavor or toss in some carrots and celery for added texture and nutrition.

In Conclusion

The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, making it easier and quicker to prepare our favorite meals. Split pea soup, a classic comfort food, is no exception. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup in no time. So why wait? Grab your Instant Pot and get cooking!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen split peas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen split peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit any meat-based ingredients and use vegetable broth instead.

Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make split pea soup on the stovetop. However, it will take longer to cook.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, split pea soup freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I use a different type of bean?

While split peas are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other legumes, such as lentils or black-eyed peas.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Of course! Feel free to use bacon, smoked sausage, or even leftover ham instead of the traditional ham hock.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, and potatoes are all great additions that can add depth and flavor to your soup.

How long will the soup keep in the refrigerator?

Split pea soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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